A SIGNED photo from the cast of TV’s Downton Abbey will be among the lots up for auction during a night to raise funds for a North-East hospice.

The picture signed by actors from the Sunday night drama, back on our screens this week, will be sold by silent auction to raise money for St Benedict’s Hospice in Ryhope, Sunderland.

The hospice is celebrating its 30th anniversary while raising money for a minibus to help those living with life-limiting illnesses and their families.

An array of celebrities, including Sir Elton John and actress Keira Knightley, has shown support for the cause by sending in signed memorabilia.

Members of the public can bid on items until 4pm on Thursday (25th September) before the auction resumes at a James Bond-themed ball held at Durham’s Ramside Hall Hotel on Friday.

Entertainment at the ball will include a 12-piece James Bond tribute band and a photo opportunity with a ‘Jaws’ impersonator.

A few tickets are still available for the ball, for more information and tickets contact the hospice fundraising team on 0191-512-8435/36.